Pitbull Dog Chart - Complete Guide to Breed Characteristics and Care

Author

Reads 211

Selective Focus Photo of Pitbull
Credit: pexels.com, Selective Focus Photo of Pitbull

Pitbulls are known for their muscular build and short coats, which require minimal grooming.

These dogs typically weigh between 35-60 pounds and stand 17-20 inches tall at the shoulder.

Pitbulls are often misunderstood due to their association with dog fighting, but in reality, they are friendly and affectionate companions.

With proper care and socialization, Pitbulls can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to homes with yards.

Readers also liked: Pitbulls Good Apartment Dogs

Breed Characteristics

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed that's all about energy and enthusiasm, with a zest for life that's contagious. They're naturally eager to please and make excellent family companions.

Their strength and agility make them capable canine climbers, so good fencing is a must to keep them safe and contained. This breed excels in performance events due to their high intelligence and willingness to work.

Their friendly nature means they're not the best choice for a guard dog, as they'll often greet strangers with a wagging tail.

For another approach, see: Dog Breed Lifespan Chart

Male American Terrier

Credit: youtube.com, American Pit Bull Terrier - Characteristics and Care

The Male American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed that grows significantly in the first year of life. By the time they're 12 months old, they can weigh up to 76 pounds.

At 1 month old, a Male Pit Bull typically weighs around 9.2 pounds. This is just the beginning of their growth journey.

By 2 months, they've more than doubled in weight, reaching around 19.9 pounds. This rapid growth is a normal part of their development.

Here's a breakdown of the Male Pit Bull's growth over the first year:

By 12 months, a Male Pit Bull has reached their adult weight, but they'll continue to fill out and develop muscle mass.

Female American Terrier

Female American Pit Bull Terriers are a wonderful breed, and understanding their growth and development is essential for any potential owner. They typically weigh between 7.2 and 3.3 kg at 1 month old.

One of the most interesting things about Female American Pit Bull Terriers is their rapid growth rate. Between 1 and 2 months, they can gain up to 9.4 kg in weight.

Credit: youtube.com, How to know if you have a Real American Pit bull Terrier?

As they mature, Female American Pit Bull Terriers continue to grow at a steady pace. By 6 months, they can weigh anywhere from 50.1 to 22.7 kg. It's amazing to think about how quickly they can grow and develop.

Here's a breakdown of the average weights for Female American Pit Bull Terriers at different ages:

Boxer

The Boxer is a breed that's known for its high energy level, which means it needs plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They're always on the go, whether it's running around the yard or begging you to play fetch.

You'll be glad to know that Boxers have a short and smooth coat that's relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming. They're often tidy on their own, so you won't have to spend too much time brushing or cleaning up after them.

If you're looking for a watchdog, a Boxer might be a great choice. They can be wary of suspicious people and actions, making them an excellent addition to any household.

Boxer Pitbull Mix dogs, also known as Bull Boxers, inherit this high energy level from their Boxer parent. They're always on the move, so be prepared to keep up with their antics!

You might like: Boxer Pitbull Dog

Cocker Spaniel

Pitbull Puppy Lying Down on Carpet
Credit: pexels.com, Pitbull Puppy Lying Down on Carpet

The Cocker Spaniel is a breed with a rich history. They originated in Spain, where they were bred as both companion dogs and hunting dogs.

These dogs were known for their ability to hunt woodcock, a type of bird. Their hunting skills are still a notable characteristic of the breed today.

In terms of their temperament, Cocker Spaniels are friendly and cheerful. They love to be around people and are often described as having a "snuggle bug" personality.

If you're considering bringing a Cocker Spaniel into your home, be prepared for a moderate amount of shedding. Regular grooming with a pin brush can help keep their coat looking its best.

If you're thinking of getting a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix, keep in mind that these dogs are also fond of snuggling on the couch and playing with little kids.

Blue Heeler

The Blue Heeler is a breed known for its high energy levels and endurance. They're perfect for families who love to stay active.

A Man Walking with Pitbull
Credit: pexels.com, A Man Walking with Pitbull

They're also great companions and can thrive in various environments, including farms. This breed is playful and enjoys spending time with its family.

Feeding your Blue Heeler is relatively straightforward. You'll want to give them food three times per day, with the amount depending on their weight and level of physical activity.

If you're considering bringing a Blue Heeler into your life, be prepared to keep them active with regular exercise like running, playing catch, and walking.

Characteristics

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed known for its strength, confidence, and zest for life. This breed is eager to please and brimming over with enthusiasm.

One of the most notable characteristics of the APBT is its natural agility, making it one of the most capable canine climbers. Good fencing is a must for this breed to prevent escape attempts.

The APBT is a high-energy breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. They do very well in performance events due to their high level of intelligence and willingness to work.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Apbt Black

Credit: youtube.com, How to know dog breeds

In terms of size, the APBT is a medium-sized breed with a muscular build. They are not the best choice for a guard dog as they are extremely friendly, even with strangers.

Here are some key characteristics of the APBT:

American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a breed that originated from the Staffordshire Terrier, which was first recognized by the AKC in 1936.

The breed was initially called the Staffordshire Terrier, but was later renamed to American Staffordshire Terrier in 1972 to distinguish it from the British Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

The AKC opened its stud book to the breed multiple times, with the last closing around the 1970s.

The American Staffordshire Terrier Club of America was founded by Wilfred Truman Brandon, and the Colby dog named Colby's Primo was one of the first to be regarded as an ideal model of the breed standard in the AKC.

The breed has undergone significant changes over the years, with some breeders pursuing different goals and producing dogs with distinct physical and temperament differences.

A fresh viewpoint: Apbt Colors

Credit: youtube.com, American Staffordshire Terrier Dog Breeds 101, All Info

The ADBA considers the American Staffordshire Terrier to be a separate breed from the American Pit Bull Terrier, and since 2015, they classify most dual-registered dogs as American Staffordshire Terriers.

The UKC is the only kennel club that still registers American Staffordshire Terriers as American Pit Bull Terriers, and their conformation champions are similar to those of the AKC.

The AKC standard for the breed does not accept red nose dogs, and the UKC dogs and the American Staffordshire Terrier are generally heavier and more robust than the ADBA American Pit Bull Terrier dogs.

Puppy Development

Puppy development is a crucial stage in a pitbull's life. At 3-7 weeks old, pitbull puppies learn fast and grow rapidly, soaking up input from their mother, litter mates, owners, and the world around them.

Positive interaction with your pitbull dog is vital for healthy growth during this stage. A pitbull dog can develop phobias at this age, so it's essential to gently socialize them and let them interact with other people comfortably.

Credit: youtube.com, Complete Pit bull puppy Training Schedule by AGE!

By 7 weeks, your American pit bull terrier should be able to eat solid food, bark, play, and even wag their tail. This is a significant milestone in their development.

Here's a breakdown of the key stages of a pitbull puppy's life:

By tracking your pitbull's growth and development, you can ensure they reach their full potential and live a happy, healthy life.

Size and Weight Comparison

Pitbulls are generally medium-sized dogs, despite their sturdy build. They average around 15-20 inches tall from the shoulders down.

Male pitbulls tend to be larger than females, with an average weight difference of around 5-5 lbs, with males weighing around 35-65 lbs and females approximately 30-60 lbs.

Here's a comparison of male and female pitbull weights at different ages:

Terrier Weight

Pitbulls are classed as medium-sized dogs, despite their sturdy build. They typically stand between 15-20 inches tall from the shoulders down.

On average, a male pit bull can weigh between 35-65 pounds, while a female pit bull terrier weighs around 30-60 pounds.

Credit: youtube.com, Staffy Bull Terrier vs Amstaff: 6 KEY DIFFERENCES

A pitbull puppy is approximately 7-10 ounces when born and can reach a weight of 75 pounds as an adult. However, mastiff crosses can reach well over 100 pounds.

Here's a breakdown of the average weight of a male pit bull at different ages:

Similarly, here's a breakdown of the average weight of a female pit bull at different ages:

Corgi

The Corgi is a beloved breed known for its short stature and adorable appearance. They typically weigh between 25-38 pounds and stand about 10-12 inches tall.

One thing to consider when bringing a Corgi into your family is their potential for joint problems due to their weight. The Corgi Pitbull Mix, for example, may be at risk for hip dysplasia due to their additional weight.

Corgis have a short, dense coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. You'll want to brush your Corgi at least once a week to keep their coat looking its best.

Pitbull Lying Down in Black and White
Credit: pexels.com, Pitbull Lying Down in Black and White

Corgis are known for their affectionate nature and eagerness to please, making them a great breed for first-time dog owners. Their friendly demeanor also makes them a great addition to families with children.

Here's a comparison of the Corgi's weight and height compared to the Corgi Pitbull Mix:

Less Than 6% of USA Dogs

Less than 6% of dogs in the USA are pitbulls, despite their popularity and misconceptions about their numbers.

Pitbulls are often misunderstood and stereotyped, but they're actually a beloved breed by many dog owners.

According to the American Temperament Test Society, pitbulls have a passing rate of 86.8%, which is higher than many other breeds.

Pitbulls are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them a great companion for many families.

In fact, pitbulls are often referred to as "nanny dogs" due to their gentle nature around children.

History and Bloodlines

The American Pit Bull Terrier has a rich history that spans centuries. The breed originated in England in the mid-19th century when Old English Terriers and Old English Bulldogs were bred together to produce a dog that combined the gameness of the terrier with the strength and athleticism of the bulldog.

Broaden your view: Pitbull Dog 6 Months Old

Credit: youtube.com, 11 popular Pitbull Bloodlines

In the United States, these dogs arrived in the late 19th century and became the direct ancestors of the American Pit Bull Terrier. The breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1898, with the first registration being assigned to Bennett's Ring, a dog owned by UKC founder C. Z. Bennett.

The American Pit Bull Terrier has several bloodlines, including the Castillo and Colby bloodlines. The Castillo bloodline was founded by Tekla Castillo in the early 1980s and features a mix of different breeding lines, resulting in dogs with desirable traits such as strength, intelligence, and temperament.

The breed has also been known by other names, including the Bull and Terrier, Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, and Pit Bull Terrier. Today, the American Pit Bull Terrier is recognized as a versatile breed that excels in various dog sports, including Obedience, Rally Obedience, Tracking, Agility, Lure Coursing, Dock Jumping, and Weight Pulls.

Descendants of Old English Dog

Credit: youtube.com, History of Medieval Old English Bulldogs

The term "pit bull" describes all descendants of the Old English Bulldog.

The Old English Bulldog was adapted into a fighting dog referred to as the "Bull and Terrier."

This breed eventually became the Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Terrier.

The Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Terrier further branched out into the Pit Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

The Pit Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier eventually became the English Bull Terrier and American Pit Bull Terrier.

The American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier are the final descendants of the Old English Bulldog.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Pitbull Dog English

Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a breed with a rich history. It originated in China over 2,000 years ago, where it was bred as a working dog, guarding the homes of royalty.

This ancient breed has a strong prey drive, which means it needs regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. You'll want to make sure your Chow Chow gets at least 30 minutes of exercise daily.

Close-Up Shot of a White and Brown Pitbull Lying Down on a Couch
Credit: pexels.com, Close-Up Shot of a White and Brown Pitbull Lying Down on a Couch

Living with a Chow Chow requires some special considerations, especially if you have small children or other pets. You'll need to supervise interactions closely to ensure everyone gets along.

A balanced diet is also crucial for your Chow Chow's well-being. Look for high-quality dog food with high nutritional value to keep your furry friend in top shape.

If you're thinking of bringing a Chow Chow into your home, make sure you're prepared for the extra space it needs. Chow Chows are more suited to open-spaced living than apartment living.

Shar Pei

The Shar Pei is a breed with a rich history. It originated from southern China, where it was reared as a guardian and hunter.

The Shar Pei breed has a unique heritage, with its roots in ancient China. Its ancestors were likely used for similar purposes, such as guarding and hunting.

Shar Pei dogs are known for their distinctive coats, which require regular grooming to prevent matting. You'll need to brush their coats weekly to remove scattered fur.

Credit: youtube.com, Shar Pei - History of breed (Part 1of3)

A Shar Pei's exercise needs are moderate, requiring at least one hour of physical activity per day. This can include playing catch, fly ball, or weight pulling activities.

Shar Pei Pitbull Mix dogs, also known as Shar Pits, have a similar exercise requirement. They'll enjoy activities like playing catch and weight pulling, which can help keep them happy and healthy.

If you're considering bringing a Shar Pei or Shar Pit into your family, be prepared for regular grooming and exercise. With the right care, these dogs can make wonderful companions.

Here's an interesting read: Other Dogs Attack My Dog

Akita

The Akita breed has a rich history and unique characteristics. The Akita Pitbull Mix, also known as the Pitkita, is a mixed breed that inherits some of these traits.

The Akita is an ancient breed originating from Japan, known for its loyalty and protective nature. The Akita Pitbull Mix is eager to please and obedient, making it relatively easy to train.

Low Angle Shot of an Adorable Pitbull
Credit: pexels.com, Low Angle Shot of an Adorable Pitbull

Akita owners often report that their dogs are fiercely loyal and loving, but can also be wary of strangers. The Pitbull Akita Mix may develop progressive retinal atrophy, heart diseases, and hip dysplasia with advanced age.

As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to consider the potential health issues associated with the breed. If you're interested in adopting or buying an Akita Pitbull Mix, be sure to contact reliable breeders or ask for recommendations from your local veterinarian.

A responsible breeder will provide health clearance for the parent breeds, ensuring you're getting a healthy puppy. This can give you peace of mind and help you make an informed decision about bringing a new furry friend home.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a fascinating breed that originated in Africa, where they served as house guardians and excellent hunters. They're a rare breed, but their rich history is worth exploring.

One of the most interesting things about the Rhodesian Ridgeback is their physical characteristics. They're known for their distinctive ridge of hair running along their back in the opposite direction of their coat.

Credit: youtube.com, Rhodesian Ridgeback History Depicted.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback's ancestry is also worth noting. They hailed from Africa, a continent with a vast and diverse range of wildlife and ecosystems.

In terms of health, the Rhodesian Ridgeback may be prone to certain conditions, including heart diseases and hypothyroidism. It's essential to be aware of these potential health issues and work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

Here are some of the potential health issues associated with the Rhodesian Ridgeback:

  • Heart diseases
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Elbow dysplasia

Doberman

The Doberman has a rich history, and its bloodlines are a fascinating topic. The Doberman is a breed that originated in Germany in the late 19th century.

The Doberman's origins are closely tied to the efforts of Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector who wanted to create a dog that was both intelligent and intimidating. This breed has been used as a guard dog and police dog for many years.

Related reading: Pitbull Dog vs Doberman

Credit: youtube.com, 🐾 The Untold History and Origins of the Doberman Pinscher Breed 🐶

One of the key characteristics of the Doberman is its athleticism and high energy levels. Doberman Pitbull Mix dogs, in particular, have high energy levels and should be taken on regular walks and provided with plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Doberman Pitbull Mix dogs also have a relatively low maintenance coat, requiring only occasional brushing to stay clean and healthy. This makes them a great choice for busy owners who don't have a lot of time to devote to grooming.

However, Doberman Pitbull Mix dogs can be prone to certain health issues, including cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis, and osteosarcoma. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help to minimize the risk of these conditions.

Here are some potential health issues that can affect Doberman Pitbull Mix dogs:

  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Aortic stenosis
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Gastric torsion
  • Osteosarcoma

History

The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) has a rich and complex history that spans centuries. The breed originated in England in the mid-19th century, where bulldogs and terriers were crossed to create a dog that combined gameness with strength and athleticism.

Credit: youtube.com, History of Sweater Bloodline

In the United States, these early APBTs were used for various purposes, including as catch dogs for semi-wild cattle and hogs, and as family companions. The breed's versatility was soon recognized, and it went on to excel in various dog sports, such as Obedience, Rally Obedience, and Conformation.

The United Kennel Club (UKC) was the first registry to recognize the APBT, and it assigned registration number 1 to C. Z. Bennett's own APBT, Bennett's Ring, in 1898. This marked the beginning of the breed's official recognition.

The APBT's history is also marked by its association with dog fighting, which was a popular bloodsport in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, with the introduction of animal welfare laws in the UK, dog fighting was eventually banned, and the breed's reputation began to shift.

Here are some key dates in the APBT's history:

  • 1835: Britain introduces animal welfare laws, banning bloodsports like bull baiting and bear baiting.
  • 1845-1860: APBTs arrive in the United States, where they are used for various purposes.
  • 1889: John Pritchard Colby starts the famous Colby bloodline, which becomes a pillar of the APBT breed.
  • 1898: The UKC recognizes the APBT as a distinct breed, assigning registration number 1 to Bennett's Ring.
  • 1935: The Kennel Club in England registers the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a breed closely related to the APBT.
  • 1996: The San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals attempts to rebrand APBTs as "St. Francis Terriers", but the program is eventually halted due to concerns about public safety.

Castillo

The Castillo bloodline is a lineage of American Pit Bull Terriers known for its unique combination of different breeding lines. This combination results in dogs with desirable traits such as strength, intelligence, and temperament.

Credit: youtube.com, watchdog bloodline history #pitbull #chaos #hugezee #apbt #americanstaffordshire

Founded by Tekla Castillo in the early 1980s, the Castillo program focused on conformation standards within the UKC. The bloodline's foundation includes dogs such as "PR" Nelson's Hazard Joe, born from breeding between Camarano's Buster Jo and Coonie's Bonnie.

The Castillo bloodline features a mix of other well-known bloodlines, with connections to influential dog breeders like Earl Tudor, Joe Corvino, and J.P. Colby. These connections have contributed to the bloodline's expansion over time due to the collective efforts of multiple breeders.

Activities and Appearance

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a versatile breed that excels in various dog sports. They're natural athletes, so it's no surprise they're great at weight pulling, dog agility, flyball, lure coursing, and advanced obedience competition.

Their intelligence, high energy, and endurance make them suitable for a wide range of working disciplines. In the United States, they've been used as search and rescue dogs, police dogs, and even Border Patrol dogs.

Credit: youtube.com, Pitbull Dog Breed Types: Differences, Appearances, and Characteristics

This breed is a medium-sized, solidly built dog with a short coat and smooth, well-defined musculature. They're powerful and athletic, with a broad, flat skull and a wide, deep muzzle.

The American Pit Bull Terrier comes in all colors and color patterns except merle. Their relatively short tail is set low, thick at the base and tapers to a point.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a breed with a rich history. It originated in China and was initially kept as a companion animal, earning the name "little lion." The Shih Tzu is a friendly dog that gets along well with kids and other trustworthy strangers.

The Shih Tzu's friendly nature makes it a great addition to many families. With proper socialization, it will only become more affectionate and outgoing over time.

The Shih Tzu has a high potential for mouthiness, so be prepared to provide plenty of chew toys and engage in playtime with treats. This will help redirect its natural instincts and prevent unwanted nipping or chewing.

By providing a stable and loving environment, you can help tame any possible aggressiveness in the Shih Tzu.

Activities

Close-up Photo of Brown Pitbull
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up Photo of Brown Pitbull

American Pit Bull Terriers excel in many dog sports, including weight pulling, dog agility, flyball, lure coursing, and advanced obedience competition. They're also highly suited for search and rescue missions.

With their intelligence, high energy, and endurance, they can perform a wide range of working disciplines. This includes narcotics and explosives detection, as well as general service dogs, including therapy dogs.

In the United States, they've been used as Border Patrol dogs. They're also often used as hearing dogs to provide services to the deaf.

Some people use them for catching feral pigs, but this practice can be very hazardous for the dogs. They may experience severe injuries, heat exhaustion, poisoning, vehicular trauma, snake bite, and accidental shooting.

General Appearance

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized, solidly built dog with smooth, well-defined musculature. They are a powerful and athletic breed.

Their body is just slightly longer than tall, but bitches may be somewhat longer in body than dogs. The length of the front leg is approximately equal to one-half of the dog's height at the withers.

Credit: youtube.com, VOCABULARY physical appearance

The head is of medium length, with a broad, flat skull, and a wide, deep muzzle. Ears are small to medium in size, high set, and may be natural or cropped.

The relatively short tail is set low, thick at the base and tapers to a point. The American Pit Bull Terrier comes in all colors and color patterns except merle.

This breed combines strength and athleticism with grace and agility and should never appear bulky or muscle-bound or fine-boned and rangy. Balance and harmony of all parts are critical components of breed type.

Gait

The American Pit Bull Terrier's gait is truly a sight to behold. It's effortless, smooth, powerful, and well coordinated, showing good reach in front and drive behind.

Their topline remains level with only a slight flexing to indicate suppleness. This means they can move with ease and agility.

Legs turn neither in nor out, nor do feet cross or interfere with each other. This is a testament to their athleticism and coordination.

Pitbull Playing in Snow with Tennis Ball
Credit: pexels.com, Pitbull Playing in Snow with Tennis Ball

As speed increases, feet tend to converge toward the center line of balance. This is a natural response to increased movement.

Faults in gait include legs not moving on the same plane, legs over reaching, and legs crossing over in front or rear. These are all signs of a less-than-ideal gait.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the four types of Pit Bulls?

The four types of Pit Bulls are the American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and American Bully. These breeds are often lumped together due to their physical and temperamental similarities, but each has its own unique characteristics and history.

What 3 breeds make a pitbull?

The term "Pit Bull" refers to a group of three registered breeds: Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and American Pit Bull Terrier. These breeds are often mistakenly referred to as a single breed, but they have distinct characteristics and histories.

Lucy Orn-Mills

Writer

Lucy Orn-Mills is a versatile writer with a passion for canine culture. With a keen interest in the world of dogs, she has penned articles on a wide range of topics, from the charming Border Terrier to the rich history of dog breeds originating in Scotland and England. Lucy's expertise extends to the fascinating realm of Terriers, a group of breeds known for their feisty and affectionate nature.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.